How to Talk to the AI and Write a Great Prompt
Handoff's AI helps you create fast, accurate estimates by understanding natural language. Whether you're estimating a bathroom remodel, concrete work, landscaping, or new construction, providing clear input will give you better results.
This article explains how to talk to the AI and how to write a strong prompt.
What is a prompt?
A prompt is the message you type to the AI to generate an estimate. There's no special format. Just describe the job as you would to another contractor — clearly and in plain English.
Quick-start prompt cards
When you open a new chat, Handoff shows a row of example prompt cards across the bottom of the screen. These are pre-built job descriptions you can tap to instantly fill the message input with a ready-to-use prompt. It's the fastest way to get your first estimate.
Just tap a card, edit it to match your job, and hit Send.
What makes a good prompt?
The AI works best when your prompt includes:
Project type and size – Example: 12x10 bathroom, 2,500 sq ft home, 40 ft driveway
Scope of work – What's being done? (e.g., demolition, installation, replacement)
Materials and finishes – Use general levels (budget, mid-grade, premium) or list specific brands
Trades or systems involved – Plumbing, electrical, HVAC, concrete, etc.
Prompt structure
You can use this structure as a starting point:
Create a detailed estimate for a [size] [project type]. The work includes [scope of work], using [materials], and involves [systems or trades].
Examples:
Create a detailed estimate for a 12x10 bathroom remodel. Remove and replace the shower tile, floor tile, vanity, toilet, fan, and lighting. Use mid-grade finishes and Kohler plumbing fixtures.
Estimate the cost to pour a 40 ft concrete driveway, 10 ft wide and 4 inches thick, with rebar reinforcement and control joints. Include demo and haul-off of existing slab.
Build a 400 sq ft deck using pressure-treated lumber and composite decking. Include stairs, railing, and skirting. Use mid-grade materials.
Supported project types
Handoff can handle a wide range of projects — from interior remodels to outdoor and concrete work. Try it out on any of your jobs.
Tips for refining your prompts
Be specific – More detail leads to better results
Use plain language – No formatting or jargon needed
Break up complex projects – Describe by phase or room if needed
Follow up for changes – The AI remembers your conversation. Ask it to revise or clarify after the estimate is generated.
Example follow-ups:
"Can you remove the painting from this scope?"
"Break this down by trade."
"Add demolition and disposal of old materials."
Save your best prompts as templates
If you use the same type of prompt repeatedly, save it as a Template. Templates let you store reusable documents, client messages, and terms — so you're never starting from scratch.
To manage your templates, go to Settings → Templates. Templates are organized into three tabs: Documents, Client messages, and Terms & conditions.
Common mistakes to avoid
Writing vague prompts like "Remodel kitchen"
Leaving out key info like size or material types
Using abbreviations or shorthand the AI may not understand
A better prompt:
Remodel a 15x10 kitchen. Remove existing cabinets and install mid-grade white shaker cabinets, quartz countertops, and a tile backsplash. Include demo, drywall, electrical, and plumbing.
If results don't look right
Try simplifying or rewording your prompt
Add more specific material names or dimensions
Use follow-up prompts to refine what was generated
Look back at past successful prompts as a reference
Summary
To get the best results with Handoff's AI, provide a clear, detailed description of the job: size, scope, materials, and systems. Use the quick-start cards to get going fast, follow up to refine, and save your best prompts as templates for future jobs.